Many people deserve credit for V&T project

In all the hubbub of announcing the long-awaited inaugural run of the V&T Railway to Carson City on Aug. 14, one of the most important backers of the whole reconstruction effort has been overlooked - Sen. Harry Reid, who secured $11 million for the project.

The senator has been on board (no pun intended) since the very beginning, securing the initial funding to begin the studies, etc., plus many appropriations following that one.

The senator realized early on that Nevada relies heavily on tourism and that the V&T Railway reconstructed to at least 19 miles of the original trek would be a huge draw, even internationally.

In addition to Sen. Reid, the list of people and organizations that furthered this effort could fill a room; however, I would be remiss if I didn't mention former Carson City Mayor Marv Teixeira, whose efforts with the Department of Transportation appropriations bills, the Carson City sales tax initiative and the Carson City two-percent room tax increase resulted in millions of dollars for the project.

Also, Earl and Wanda Casazza of Reno, who have donated multiple funds, a Ferrari automobile and original V&T track to the effort; the Sierra Nevada Realtors who donated $50,000 to the project as has the Northern Nevada Railway Foundation, who during 15 years raised more than $1.2 million.

County support has come mainly from Carson City; however, Storey County has been a major contributor since about 1994, when they increased their sales tax by a quarter-cent, and Washoe County provided a one-time donation of $250,000.

The Carson City Convention and Visitors Bureau has set aside $50,000 every year besides the funds from the two-percent room tax increase for the project.

God help me, I know I'll catch it from someone I've overlooked; however, we can remedy that in a future column.

For VIP railroad riders on August 14, the Northern Nevada Railway Foundation will offer 200 limited edition plaques with slices of the old V&T Railroad track from the 1800s with certificates of authenticity for $100. The public can call the foundation at 885-6833 and leave their name and telephone number and can buy one if any are still available.

The V&T Railway will run every Saturday for 11 more weeks beginning on Saturday, Aug. 15. For information and prices call the Carson City Convention and Visitors Bureau at 687-7410. See you at the railroad!

• Janice R. Ayres is president of the Northern Nevada Railway Foundation